Do you know what antioxidants are?

Do you know what phytonutrients are?

An antioxidant is a substance that protects the body from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that are produced in our bodies as a result of being exposed to toxins through pollution, for example. They can also form through everyday metabolic processes as well as exercise. Over time free radicals can cause cell damage which can lead to health issues such as cancer and heart disease. Cell damage can also lead to premature aging.

Fruits & vegetables contain the antioxidants we need to fight the free radicals, therefore, helping to keep us healthy.

Both fruits & vegetables contain what are known as phytonutrients, which are what gives the fruit or vegetable its color and flavor as well as specific health benefits. For example, blackberries have a deep purple color which come from anthocyanins, a type of phytonutrient. Anthocyanins have anticancer properties and help support healthy aging.

Fruits such as berries are extremely versatile. Not only can you put them in smoothies, you can also add them to salads, yogurts, cereal, and muffins…I mean the possibilities are endless!

So, if you love berries like me, then you’ll love this post. If you don’t eat berries yet, this post will give you good reason to start adding them to your diet today!

Here are 7 types of berries along with their health benefits:

ELDERBERRIES

Can help with:

lung congestion
boosting immunity
detoxing

BLACKBERRIES

Can help with:

skin damage from sun exposure
removing toxins from the gut
growth of cancer cells
high blood pressure
protection from heart disease
maintaining a healthy gut
preventing inflammation

RASPBERRIES

Can help with:

inhibit certain cancers
regular bowel
regulating blood sugar levels
stimulating metabolism
suppressing fat absorption

CRANBERRIES

Can help with:

urinary tract infections
plaque buildup
receding gums
heavy periods
upset stomach
sore throat
laryngitis
diarrhea
ulcers
protection against heart disease

BLUEBERRIES

Can help with:

improving eyesight
keeping prostate healthy
maintaining a healthy gut
improving memory
urinary tract infections

GOJI BERRIES

Can help with:

getting a good night’s sleep
heart health
enhancing memory
inflammatory diseases, like arthritis
sore muscles
eye health
boosting immunity

STRAWBERRIES

Can help with:

upset stomach
artherosclerosis
neutralizing cancer causing chemicals in the body
indigestion

Now, for some homemade strawberry chia jam, yum! Feel free to substitute the strawberries for other berries to mix it up!

Homemade Strawberry Chia Jam

This recipe makes 3 cups.

What you’ll need:

2 cups of fresh or frozen strawberries
1 cup water
3/4 cup of chia seeds

Directions:

If using fresh strawberries, cut the stems off.
Blend the water and strawberries together in a high speed blender until smooth.
Transfer the mixture to a medium mixing bowl. Add in the chia seeds and stir until they are well incorporated. Or you can transfer the mixture evenly between two mason jars, place half the chia seeds in one jar and the other half in the other jar, place the lids on tight and shake vigorously to mix in the chia seeds.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight, then enjoy on toast, pancakes, french toast, whatever your heart desires!
Feel free to add in more chia seeds if you desire a thicker consistency.

Store jam in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about 3 weeks.